Forget Hawaii, the Carribean: Vacation in Roatan!

Updated on May 13, 2012

Coral reef

You can also arrive by cruise

Amazing sea life opera!

Best beaches

Water so clear it looks like an illusion!

Few think of the Honduras when considering their annual tropical breach vacation. Its just not on the radar. While Hawaii is easier to get to and is in the US, as is Florida, they do lack. The Caribbean comes closer to the perfect vacation area for beaches and water. Yet, many prefer the absolutely clear tropical waters that embrace the island of Roatan, off Honduras, in Latin America. The waters are so stunningly clear, sometimes you must do a "double take" at a kayak sitting on water, yet it appears to be in mid-air. Scuba and free diving is simply "the best", go no further than off the shallow reefs. It is like being in a tropical aquarium-sea turtles, coral fish, clown fish- you name it. The beaches are pristine white and contrast with the azure blue water that is a warm 70-75F. Of course, the beaches are lined with tall Queen Palms and other varieties , all gently caressed by tropical breezes. All kinds of water sports fit this idyllic island of Roatan perfectly. If you are not into water sports, rent bikes, horses, hike, do the zipline or go bird watching\fishing. Everything you might need to do whatever you might want can be rented. No worries. While you are there, check out the amazing Butterfly Gardens and Iguana Farms and set one day aside for Gumbalimba Park. It is an amazing botanical garden and animal preserve with ziplines to zoom over them. There is a lot to see and do there.

Most airlines fly into San Pedro Sula, Honduras. From there, local flights or ferry service from La Ceiba ($16-22) can get you to the island. Some airlines fly directly to Roatan, but the price is higher. If you are on the cheap, $10 a night at some backpacker dorms can be found. Many hotels offer a rate of $100+ a night, some include meals and free tours! The most popular resort is Anthony's Key Resort. They have been there for 40 years and have some great vacation packages.

Once you go once, you will want to go back. Hawaii and the Caribbean will rate a distant second!